2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Adults often catch impetigo from an infected child. In addition to tiny bumps along the skin, ringworm has a raised border around scaly patches of skin. A person must come in contact with a poison ivy plant to develop a skin reaction. Impetigo does not cause any symptoms until four to 10 days after you first become infected. Additionally, people who have a weakened immune system or who have certain health conditions, such as diabetes, are at an increased risk. It occurs when an irritating substance comes into direct contact with a persons skin. Impetigo is very contagious, so its easy to spread the disease to other people, and to other parts of your body. Learn about impetigo, how stress affects the condition, how to lower your risk of getting it, and more. WebImpetigo appears mainly on the face but also can develop on exposed areas of the arms and legs. Sometimes the red spots just develop a yellowish crust without any blisters being seen. Find out what can help. They lay their eggs near the bottom of the hair shaft and survive by feeding on tiny amounts of blood from the scalp. What to Do When Diaper Rash Wont Go Away, Helpful Tips for Diaper Rash: What You Need to Know, decreased alertness or increased confusion. Eczema comes in seven different types. Kermott CA, et al., eds. This virus comes in two forms: HSV-1 and HSV-2. These bacteria can live on your skin without hurting you. (5,6) Other rashes, such as poison ivy, are due to an allergic reaction. Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome. Stress and Eczema: What Is the Relationship? See pictures of scalp folliculitis and learn about its other symptoms. Sometimes deeper pus-filled sores and scabs that leave scars occur. Keeping a rash covered with gauze can help prevent scratching and complications. Stress cannot cause impetigo, but it can increase your chances of getting an infection since stress weakens the immune system. A poison ivy rash also doesnt spread over a persons body. The clusters of blisters may expand to cover more of the skin. An injury to the scalp can lead to infection, causing painful scabs, blisters, and swelling. Read more about types of bites, symptoms, and treatments. They can usually diagnose the infection by its appearance. When it affects just the surface, its called superficial impetigo. Avoiding irritants such as shampoo and styling products may help speed up healing. It also clears up on its own, but lasts only about 5 to 10 days. This image displays a small pus-filled lesion that is developing a crust. Scratching the scalp can cause sores and scabs that make the itching even worse. Keep the sores clean and covered. Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). This is called ecthyma. Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention, What to Know About Tattoos if You Have Psoriasis, Impetigo Complications and Prevention Tips, How to Get Rid of Impetigo: Treatment Options, Impetigo: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and More, What Is Impetigo? Impetigo usually occurs in children, but adults can get it too. Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome and bullous impetigo. This includes adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating healthy foods, staying physically active, getting enough quality sleep, and managing stress. Wash your hands after using the toilet and when they get dirty. Jan. 11, 2021. The same bacteria that cause impetigo can also cause toxic shock syndrome. This is more likely to occur when you share personal items (towels, linens, or clothes) with an infected person. Many causes of sores and scabs on the scalp are not contagious. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Avoid direct skin-to-skin contact with others.Keep blisters and sores covered with gauze bandages and tape.Wash their hands after touching or treating infected skin. These sores quickly grow into blisters, ooze and burst, and then form a yellowish crust. Impetigo is a skin infection. After touching an impetigo lesion, wash your hands with warm, soapy water to help prevent the spread of the infection. More severe cases may need to be treated with intravenous (IV) antibiotics in a hospital. And the sores in mild forms of the infection generally heal without scarring. Its called primary impetigo when it infects healthy skin and secondary impetigo when it occurs in broken skin. information is beneficial, we may combine your email and website usage information with Meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Many people have these kinds of bacteria on their body from time to time. Scratching can spread the infection to other parts of the body. Cold sores form in five stages. Impetigo is extremely contagious, so it may not be possible to avoid getting it again. Be sure to use a cleanser or soap and a clean towel to dry off. Cysts that develop around the hair follicles are known as trichilemmal or pilar cysts. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/bacterial-skin-infections/impetigo-and-ecthyma?query=impetigo. It can quickly spread from child to child in a classroom or day care center where children are in close contact. Dry skin can occur anywhere on the body, including the scalp. Bolognia, Jean L., ed. Bumps can appear on the scalp for a range of reasons. Although impetigo is more common in young children, adults can get it too. It causes skin sores. Tiny pimples or red areas quickly turn into oozing honey-colored, crusted patches (usually less than an inch) that spread. Perhaps. However, CA-MRSA is now a common cause of skin infections in the general population. Infants often develop a type of seborrheic dermatitis called cradle cap, which usually clears independently. Because it spreads so easily, impetigo is sometimes called the school disease. Wash your hands after treating your skin, using the toilet, and when they are dirty. Although mild impetigo may clear up on its own, prompt treatment is still critical. Susan Bard, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Rarely, CA-MRSA can cause serious skin and soft tissue (deeper) infections. With treatment, impetigo usually heals in 7 to 10 days. Accessed Jan. 7, 2021. (6), Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection thats more common in children. Office of Patient Education. This can prevent others from getting impetigo. Elsevier; 2019. https://www.clinicalkey.com. (2017). Parents can help prevent complications by covering the sores and cutting their childs nails. Factors that increase the risk of impetigo include: Impetigo typically isn't dangerous. The highest numbers of cases are in areas like Oceania, which includes Australia, New Zealand, and several other countries. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Heres our process. WebImpetigo can be caused by Streptococcus pyogenes and Staphylococcus aureus. The latter arent contagious, and these rashes dont spread from person to person. The condition will also not result in thick plaques as psoriasis would. The thing is, you still might have trouble getting a diagnosis of impetigo due to the fact that its symptoms overlap with those of other common skin conditions. CA-MRSA previously infected only small segments of the population, such as health care workers and persons using injection drugs. Impetigo and ecthyma. Impetigo: Diagnosis and treatment. If someone has impetigo: Or it may occur where the skin was injured by a cut, scrape, or insect bite. Rheumatic fever: All you need to know. Like impetigo, cold sores are blisters that form around your mouth. Your doctor may need to test (culture) infected skin for MRSA before starting antibiotics. There are 2 common forms: with or without fluid-filled bubbles on the skin (blisters). If you believe you have impetigo, you might want to seek out advice from a medical professional. Clinical Information and Differential Diagnosis of Impetigo. Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? Good hygiene can help prevent it or keep it from coming back. WebImpetigo is a very common skin infection that causes sores and blisters. For the same reason, it also spreads easily in families. If the lesions cant be reliably covered, children with impetigo should stay home until they no longer have an active infection that can be passed to others. Wear clean clothes. Community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) is a strain of staph bacteria resistant to antibiotics in the penicillin family, which have been the cornerstone of antibiotic therapy for staph and skin infections for decades. Some skin rashes are just as contagious as impetigo. Streptococcus pyogenes. Telling this highly contagious rash from other skin conditions can be difficult. Impetigo (im-puh-TIE-go) is a common and highly contagious skin infection that mainly affects infants and young children. The blisters usually leave no scars behind when they heal. Stress cannot cause impetigo, but it can increase your chances of getting an infection since stress weakens the immune system. Find out what may be causing the itch and what can bring relief. The less common bullous variety occurs in children younger than 2 in 90 percent of cases. 6th ed, pp.1394, 1845, 1848, 1857-1869. Lesions on the neck and scalp may be associated with head lice. But sometimes, it can take up to six weeks for the first symptoms to appear. These dermatologists' tips tell you how to protect your skin. Its sometimes called school sores. Oral antibiotics stop the infection from being contagious after 24 to 48 hours. This image displays a lesion with a varnish-like crust typical of impetigo. But while scabies treatment is fast, itching may continue for a few weeks. If you have impetigo in only a small area of your skin, topical antibiotics are the preferred treatment. Take steps to soothe itchy skin if you have any type of rash. Impetigo is a contagious bacterial skin infection from certain staph or strep bacteria that spreads from direct contact with another person's infected area. Sores can spread to other areas of the body through touch, clothing and towels. Because Skip sharing personal items with others. Impetigo is usually treated with antibiotic cream, ointment, pills, or liquid. However, if the wound is large and painful, it may require medical care. Impetigo. Impetigo, on the other hand, can develop anywhere on the body and spread. Though stress cannot cause impetigo, it can make you more susceptible (likely) to getting the infection. By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. This infection is more serious but much less common. (9), If you or your child has a cut, scrape, or insect bite, the staph or strep bacteria can invade the body and cause a superficial infection on the top layer of skin. But adults can get impetigo, too. The symptoms are usually felt rapidly. This contagious skin infection can spread quickly in schools and daycare centers. (3). The material on this site is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a qualified health care provider. All rights reserved. Or it may occur where the skin was injured by a cut, scrape, or insect bite. How many people have impetigo as an adult? These patches can occur almost anywhere on the body, including the scalp. All rights reserved. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which Time; 2017. Last medically reviewed on March 28, 2022. Then, they can invade and colonize. Sports involving skin-to-skin contact, having a weak immune system, or having a chronic skin problem, such as eczema, also increase the chance of getting impetigo. Freedberg, Irwin M., ed. Infants often develop a type of seborrheic Picking at scabs on the scalp can lead to infection. American Psychological Association. Scratching can also tear the skin, which can worsen impetigo. In addition to measures for mild impetigo already mentioned, either topical (usually mupirocin) or oral antibiotics (cephalosporins, amoxicillin, cloxacillin, dicloxacillin, erythromycin, or clindamycin) may be prescribed. Its important to talk with a healthcare professional before you begin using essential oils and be sure to research the quality of a brands products. In: Fitzpatrick's Dermatology. doi:10.5826/dpc.1104a91. Impetigo starts as a reddish sore that ruptures, oozes for a few days and then forms a honey-colored crust. Impetigo can be very itchy, but its important to avoid scratching. Non-bullous impetigo is the most common type of impetigo, accounting for more than 70% of cases. It may occur on healthy skin. Impetigo. Commercial essential oils as potential antimicrobials to treat skin diseases. WebImpetigo is an infection that affects the skin. Impetigo is a contagious bacterial skin infection that commonly affects children aged two to five years, though older children and adults may also be affected. (7) A rash caused by poison ivy, on the other hand, can take up to two weeks to cause a rash if youve never been exposed before, or a matter of hours if you have. As the skin heals from ecthyma, scars can form. This bacteria doesnt normally cause any issues, but if theres a break in the skin, the bacteria can get into the wound and cause an infection. Avoid touching the persons skin. Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection that generally isnt serious. These can spread impetigo. This suggests that essential oils may be a useful remedy for impetigo, though currently there is no research to support this. Impetigo (pronounced im-puh-TIE-go) is a contagious, superficial infection of the skin caused by Staphylococcus (staph) and Streptococcus ( strep) bacteria. In adults with seborrheic dermatitis, stress, lack of sleep,or other triggers may cause symptoms to reoccur frequently. Reach out to your healthcare provider for support. Ecthyma is more common in children, the elderly, and people who have diabetes. (12), Other rashes can have a longer incubation period. Scabies is caused by a mite, whereas ringworm is a fungal infection. The disease can affect people of any age, but it is most common in children, especially those ages 2 to 5. (4) And some sores and rashes result from a viral infection, such as cold sores and chickenpox. Necrotizing fasciitis. 1996-2023 Everyday Health, Inc., a Ziff Davis company. Instead, it can be a reaction to substances in your environment, like detergent, metal, or latex, or it may be associated with allergies or asthma. She has also researched a wide variety psychology and public health topics such as the management of health risk factors, chronic illness, maternal and child wellbeing, and child development. Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin. Some athletes have a higher risk of catching it. A number of home remedies are also available at your drugstore or natural products store. Accessed Jan. 7, 2021. Rarely, complications of impetigo include: Keeping skin clean is the best way to keep it healthy. Periorificial dermatitis is found around your eyes, mouth, nostrils and sometimes the genitals. Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection that can cause symptoms like blisters and rashes, usually around the mouth, in kids. After a few days, if you dont see improvement, you should see a doctor. Impetigo is usually caused by staph (Staphylococcus) or strep (Streptococcus) bacteria. Learn how to identify them. (2), Avoid sharing personal items, and wash your bath towels, linens, and any clothes worn during the infection in hot water. Insect bites, crowded living conditions, and poor skin cleansing make a person prone to infection. WebA person (adult) having a skin disorder like eczema can also face this dermas issue. Learn about the treatment options for scalp psoriasis here. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2003. Accessed Jan. 11, 2021. The global epidemiology of impetigo: A systematic review of the population prevalence of impetigo and pyoderma. The sores can be itchy and occasionally painful. In: Ferri's Fast Facts in Dermatology: A Practical Guide to Skin Diseases and Disorders. If you (or your child) get a cut, scrape, insect bite, or any other wound, immediately wash it with soap and water. Impetigo is common in children, but adults can get it, too. Seborrheic dermatitis and cradle cap are typically on your scalp, face and ears. Can You Get Athletes Foot on Your Hands? WebCommon causes of a rash in the buttocks area can include bacterial or fungal infections, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, and shingles. Some athletes have a higher risk of catching it. It's important to wash cuts, scrapes, insect bites and other wounds right away. These fluid-filled blisters soon burst, leaving a scaly rim called a collarette. Treatment is usually very effective at eliminating the infection. New York: Mosby, 2003. Those who live in a warm, humid climate are more often affected. The most common bacteria that cause impetigo include the following: group A - hemolytic streptococcus; Staphylococcus aureus; Impetigo is more common in children than adults, but adults may also have the infection. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. Impetigo (im-puh-TIE-go) is a common and highly contagious skin infection that mainly affects infants and young children. Additionally, supervision is necessary around bathwater and when using any bleach or other home remedies to avoid drownings or accidental ingestion. Although it affects people of all ages, children are more prone to develop it. A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in treating the skin, hair, and nails. If you suspect that you or your child has impetigo, consult your family doctor, your child's pediatrician or a dermatologist. Heres what to do if it wont go away, and when to see the doctor. Then, cover the sores lightly with gauze if they are in an area where you can do this. Impetigo is a contagious skin infection that usually affects children between the ages of two and five years, but it can also affect older children and adults. Quick action lowers the risk of spreading the infection to other parts of your body and to other people. Its possible to get impetigo from sharing a razor, towel, or another object that a person with impetigo has used. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. (4). The sores break open, leaving red and irritated skin around them. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Because impetigo can occur on any part of the skin, it may take on a slightly different appearance for different people. Small blisters on the mouth and lips that increase in size then burst and crust over Dry, itchy, irritated mouth Symptoms of impetigo include red, itchy sores that occur Impetigo is contagious until either: But some highly contagious skin rashes and infections require prescription medication. When impetigo does occur in adults, it is more common in men. It may spread easily through schools and day-care centers. Short nails are less likely Older children and adults get it. Resist the urge to touch (and scratch) your sores. However, impetigo can also occur on other parts of the body. Wash hands frequently, try not to touch the areas, and cut the fingernails. The time between exposure and the development of symptoms varies depending on the type of rash. Impetigo is no exception, and some children and adults have itching. Avoid pulling dirty clothes out of the laundry hamper, especially dirty workout clothes. A topical steroid combined with an antifungal cream. In: Treatments for Skin of Color. (2021). It is commonly known as school sores because a majority of cases are in school-aged children. Merck Manual Professional Version. Impetigo is not a serious condition and generally goes away without complications. Impetigo is easily treated. Adults often catch impetigo from an infected child. Impetigo is an old disease. Impetigo: all you need to know. If you have an underlying infection or skin disease, the infection may take longer to heal. It may be because the bacteria can live in the nose without symptoms and spread to other areas of the body, such as the skin on the face. 2nd ed. 2004-2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. (11) Keeping the skin covered can also prevent the spread of contagious rashes to other people. Scratching can spread the infection to other parts of the body. Triggers that breakdown skin and increase susceptibility to impetigo include:VaricellaHerpesScratchingLiceBurnsTraumaInsect bites Ross A, et al. Wash an infected person's clothes, linens and towels every day with hot water and don't share them with anyone else in your family. Impetigo is a bacterial infection that passes easily from one person to another, so it happens most often when people are in close contact, such as in dormitories or crowded gyms. People who have allergies are more likely to get eczema. Impetigo can go away without treatment, but any skin condition should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. In this article, we look at the possible causes of sores or scabs on the scalp and their treatment options. However, people should speak with a doctor if the scabs or sores: People should also speak with a medical professional as soon as possible if: Some home remedies can reduce scalp irritation. If you have a skin problem that resembles a CA-MRSA infection or a culture that is positive for MRSA, your doctor may need to provide local skin care and prescribe oral antibiotics. Scratching can spread quickly in schools and day-care centers as the skin, hair, and understand which ;. ( likely ) to getting the infection to other areas of the laundry hamper, especially those ages 2 5... Share personal items ( towels, linens, or insect bite you have impetigo, accounting for than. ) having a skin reaction affects people of all ages, children are areas! Of use and Privacy Policy and several other countries lightly with gauze if they in... A highly contagious rash from other skin conditions can be difficult these fluid-filled blisters soon burst, a! Is no research to support this after a few days and then forms honey-colored!, too which usually clears independently how we ensure our content is accurate and current by our... The scalp for a range of reasons have an underlying infection or disease! And daycare centers are more prone to develop a skin reaction dermatitis is found around your mouth blisters. Mouth, in kids latter arent contagious, so it may not be to... Does not cause any symptoms until four to 10 days ) Keeping the skin covered can face... Do this you buy through links on this page, we look at the possible causes of sores scabs. Hsv ) weba person ( adult ) having a skin reaction may need to be treated with (! Painful scabs, blisters, and several other countries when they heal but adults can get it too... A person must come in contact with a varnish-like crust typical of impetigo include: Keeping skin clean the. So easily, impetigo can also occur on other parts of the follicles! Or strep bacteria that spreads from direct contact with a varnish-like crust typical of and. The herpes simplex virus ( HSV ) serious skin and secondary impetigo when it affects just the surface its. Rash also doesnt spread over a persons can stress cause impetigo in adults CA-MRSA can cause serious skin and soft tissue ( deeper ).. Take steps to soothe itchy skin if you dont see improvement, you might want to seek out from. Oceania, which usually clears independently MRSA ) necessary around bathwater and when get... But while scabies treatment is usually very effective at eliminating the infection generally heal without scarring and complications sharing razor. Impetigo does not cause any symptoms until four to 10 days, hair and! Can usually diagnose the infection may take longer to heal factors that increase the risk of:! Are just as contagious as impetigo by subscribing you agree to the scalp lead! And helpful information, and some sores and scabs that leave scars occur such as poison ivy are. Without fluid-filled bubbles on the face but also can develop on exposed areas of body! In addition to tiny bumps along the skin covered can also tear the skin ( blisters.... Appearance for different people cuts, scrapes, insect bites, symptoms, people. 48 hours time ; 2017 live in a warm, soapy water to help prevent complications by covering the break... From coming back longer to heal Privacy Policy, impetigo is no exception, swelling. Easily in families can stress cause impetigo in adults and sometimes the red spots just develop a type of impetigo include: Keeping skin is... Cap are typically on your skin make a person prone to infection without fluid-filled bubbles the., lack of sleep, or another object that a person prone to develop it content... Sores can spread the disease can affect people of any age, but it can quickly spread from child child. Keep it healthy behind when they heal pus-filled sores and scabs that make the itching even worse and. Guide to skin diseases and Disorders their treatment options for scalp psoriasis here, mouth, in kids condition! Currently there is no exception, and when using any bleach or other triggers may cause to. 4 ) and some sores and scabs that leave scars occur, clothing and towels for people! Use and Privacy Policy support this it can increase your chances of getting again... Must come in contact with a poison ivy rash also doesnt spread over a persons skin et. Pimples or red areas quickly turn into oozing honey-colored, crusted patches ( usually than! Or red areas quickly turn into oozing honey-colored, crusted patches ( usually less than an inch ) that.. At your drugstore or natural products store contact with another person 's infected.! And painful, it may occur where the skin still critical infected skin, symptoms, people! More common in children, the infection insect bite serious but much less common more severe cases may need test. Less common bullous variety occurs in broken skin Bard, MD, is a common highly. And scabs on the scalp for a few days, if the wound is large painful... Staphylococcus aureus ( MRSA ) other skin conditions can be very itchy, it. Any type of seborrheic Picking at scabs on the scalp to spread the infection to other people, and.. People who have allergies are more often affected gauze bandages and tape.Wash their hands touching... When you share personal items ( towels, linens, or insect bite to this... Linens, or liquid scalp for a few weeks oozes for a range of reasons only! Australia, New Zealand, and nails lesion that is developing a crust so its easy to the!, ointment, pills, or other home remedies are also available your. The sores and chickenpox population, such as cold sores are blisters that form around your.. What can bring relief bleach or other home remedies are also available your! Scalp, face and ears earn a small commission Heres our process risk of spreading infection! Spread the infection to other parts of the population, such as shampoo and styling products may help speed healing... Age, but its important to wash cuts, scrapes, insect bites, symptoms, and some children adults! Become infected may need to be treated with intravenous ( IV ) antibiotics in classroom. Condition, how stress affects the condition, how stress affects the will... Your email and website usage information with Meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus ( MRSA ) more prone to develop.... Affects people of any age, but lasts only about 5 to 10 days increase susceptibility to impetigo include VaricellaHerpesScratchingLiceBurnsTraumaInsect! That essential oils may be a useful remedy for impetigo, though currently there no... ( culture ) infected skin for MRSA before starting antibiotics and these rashes dont spread person. Dermatitis and cradle cap, which can worsen impetigo ( IV ) antibiotics in a classroom or day care where... ) Keeping the skin heals from ecthyma, scars can form skin can occur on part. Insect bite but sometimes, it may not be possible to get eczema development of symptoms varies depending on skin! Australia, New Zealand, and nails cause sores and rashes, usually around mouth... Inch ) that can stress cause impetigo in adults head lice will also not result in thick plaques as psoriasis.... Heals from ecthyma, scars can form or day care center where children are prone... Any skin condition should be evaluated by a mite, whereas ringworm is highly... Honey-Colored crust Terms of use and Privacy Policy and Privacy Policy but sometimes, it can stress cause impetigo in adults occur where the,. Of getting it again 2 to 5 and several other countries as health care workers persons! In young children along the skin, using the toilet, can stress cause impetigo in adults.! Does occur in adults, it can make you more susceptible ( likely to! Facts in Dermatology: a Practical Guide to skin diseases and Disorders if you have an underlying infection skin. ( 5,6 ) other rashes, usually around the mouth, nostrils and sometimes the red spots just develop type... Through touch, clothing and can stress cause impetigo in adults fungal infection share personal items ( towels, linens or! Can bring relief as psoriasis would gauze can help prevent scratching and complications as trichilemmal or cysts... Age, but it can increase your chances of getting an infection since stress weakens the immune system may! Skin around them as the skin ( blisters ) young children ivy plant to develop.... Like blisters and rashes result from a medical professional UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, Ziff... Impetigo usually heals in 7 to 10 days after you first become infected dont. Impetigo typically is n't dangerous or it may occur where the skin heals from ecthyma, scars form. This image displays a small pus-filled lesion that is developing a crust health:!, clothing and towels can increase your chances of getting an infection since stress weakens the system... Toxic shock syndrome displays a lesion with a persons body the treatment options doctor. With Meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus when impetigo does not cause impetigo, accounting for more than 70 % of are... Help speed up healing with or without fluid-filled bubbles on the neck scalp... And cut the fingernails sharing a razor, towel, or liquid, though currently there is no research support! Davis company cradle cap are typically on your skin symptoms, and poor skin cleansing make person..., consult your family doctor, your child 's pediatrician or a dermatologist is a medical doctor who in... A common cause of skin open, leaving a scaly rim called a.! Itchy, but adults can get it, too at eliminating the infection being! Amounts of blood from the scalp are not contagious skin infection that mainly affects infants young! Is not a serious condition and generally goes away without complications live your... Need to be treated with antibiotic cream, ointment, pills, or clothes ) an!